“BE CAREFUL HOW YOU LIVE”
PASTOR BRUCE TESSEN
SEPTEMBER 4, 2011



TEXT: Ephesians 5:15-17

INTRO: In our text, the Apostle Paul shows us how to walk wisely, so that we make the most of our lives in light of God’s will and His plan, “because the days are evil.”

I. Be Careful to Live Wisely (v. 15)

A. Please and glorify God with your life (Eph. 5:10; I Cor. 10:31, 2 Cor. 5:9; Col. 1:10).

B. Know God more deeply and value Him above anyone (Phil. 3:7-8).

C. Live a Godly life (Matt. 5:6; Titus 2:12; 1 Peter 1:14-16)

D. Demonstrate the goodness of God by how you live and how you talk (Eph. 4; 5:8; I Peter 2:9).

E. Know what dangers in life to avoid (Eph. 2:1-2).

II. Make the Most of Every Opportunity (v. 16).

A. To use our time wisely. Time (Kairos): "right or opportune moment." “A crucial moment of time, or at the right time. “

B. Do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of God (Gal. 6:10).

C. Realize how short life is (James 4:14).

III. Do Not Be Foolish, but Understand What God’s Will Is (v. 17)

God’s will discovered:
A. Present your body as a living sacrifice to God (Rom. 12:1).

B. Don’t be conformed to this world (Rom. 12:2).

C. Be transformed by renewing your mind (Rom. 12:2).
God’s will determined: Ask these questions:
1.Will I become more Godly through my decision (is it good)?
2.Will my decision bring God pleasure (is it acceptable)?
3.Will it perfect or mature me (is it perfect)?

CONCLUSION: We all have a choice to make. We can choose to live wise or foolish. You can live to please yourself or to please God. We are only on this earth for a moment. Therefore our time is valuable. May we live with eternity in mind.